Natural Disasters & Cataclysmic Events

A powerful tornado hit the city of Nashville, Tennessee on March 3, 2020, causing extensive damage. The twister has left at least 6 people dead, several others injured, and many buildings in crumbles.

"The tornado damage in Nashville is heartbreaking. Residents are being evacuated right now," said NC5 reporter Chris Conte. "Sadly, the tornado damage in Nashville is only going to become profound as the sun comes up."

The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed the tornado northwest of Downtown Nashville around 06:39 UTC (0:39 LT), adding that the twister was on the ground for roughly 45 minutes, moving east about 72 km/h (45 mph) before moving through several counties in Tennessee.

"This is an extremely dangerous tornado," NWS wrote. Nashville's Germantown neighborhood reportedly suffered some of the worst damage, where a gas leak forced an evacuation of the IMT building.

The Nashville Fire Department (NFD) said officers and personnel are on the scene, responding to reports of about 40 structure collapses. Moreover, the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) said there was major destruction in the Central downtown and East Precincts.

Authorities reported at least 9 casualties and many injured.

Unbelievable. Tornado touched down in the Germantown neighborhood in Nashville about an hour ago. Completely ripped through the neighborhood. pic.twitter.com/JCgQGaoeyu

"There are multiple homes damaged and multiple injuries. We have requested mutual aid from allied agencies. We continue to search for injured," said Mt. Juliet Police in a tweet.

Jefferson Street and Rosa Parks Boulevard were closed as roads were covered with debris and fallen posts. Homes and buildings were in shambles, with roofs ripped off, walls torn in pieces, and scraps scattered on streets.

A tornado watch remains in effect for 26 counties until 12:00 UTC (6:00 LT) on Tuesday.